311 Keeps the Good Vibes Going at Charlotte Concert
Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre; Aug. 11, 2024
It had been a handful of years since the last time I saw 311 live, but the band’s performance on Aug. 11, 2024 at Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre made it feel like no time had passed at all.
The group, with all of the same members since 1991, performed an array of songs from over the years with the same energy the did 30 years ago. Singers Nick Hexum and SA Martinez haven’t lost a step — vocally or with the dancing — bassist P-Nut still rocks the hell out of a bass solo, guitarist Timothy Mahoney never stops head banging while driving forth all the grooves and drummer Chad Sexson keeps it all together behind the kit.
While I might have preferred more of their older music, the band’s positive energy is always infectious and makes for a great summer concert.
Neon Trees opened the show with a moving performance of their own, as singer Tyler Glenn rarely stood still. He paced the stage whlie performing a tight set filled with pop-rock songs, including “Animal” and “Everybody Talks.”
I hate to be cruel, but if a shit sandwich involved two tasty pieces of bread with some crap between them, AWOLNATION provided that unwanted, um, flavor on this night. Singer Aaron Bruno has had a revolving door of musicians (15 so far) behind him since the band’s creation in 2009.
While Bruno’s enthusiasm is appreciated, his mix of falsetto with rough vocals simply doesn’t work and sounded to be all over the place. It made me wonder if that’s what drives his bandmates away. Even the band’s hit song, “Sail,” was off key and disappointing when compared to the original. Usually songs get better when performed live, but this one somehow sounded much worse. Having seen the band twice before, one can only hope this was an off night.
Be sure to check out Queen City Nerve’s Soundwave, Charlotte’s most comprehensive live music listing, so you don’t miss out on any shows or concerts coming up. And hell, if you’re looking for something else to do, you can check out our events page as well, which runs the gamut of things to do in Charlotte. You don’t ever have to be bored again. You can check out more of Jeff’s pics and live reviews here.
